Name sought for historic bridge recreated in woods

The access to Skipton Castle Woods has been improved as part of a renovation project.

An historic bridge has been reinstated by The Woodland Trust opening up access to the western part of the wood for visitors – and now it wants the public to decide the bridge’s new name.

The original bridge stood on the site 100 years ago and the crossing has been replaced through funding from Yorventure – spanning over 40ft across a small gorge above the rushing Eller Beck. Along with an improved path network, the bridge will let visitors enjoy a circular walk through oaks, pines and spruce.

Alistair Nash, Woodland Trust site manager, said: “This latest piece of improvement work on site will really help visitors get to see more of the wood – they’ll be able to get into the western part and enjoy a fantastic walk through the trees. We hope lots of people will jump at the chance to be a part of this wood’s history and send us their suggestions for the new bridge’s name.”

Yorventure’s community project manager, Angela Pease, said: “Yorventure and Yorwaste Ltd are delighted to be involved with the reinstatement of this historic bridge, which will enable many more visitors to further explore and enjoy this wonderful woodland.”

The 15-hectare wood is one of the Woodland Trust’s key sites in the north of England, sitting on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Suggestions for the bridge’s name can be sent to competition@woodlandtrust.org.uk.

The winning name will put on a plaque on the bridge, and will appear on future maps.